Cat hiding

[EVLLADY]

Today is our home glucose testing. We rented a AlphaTrack from the Vet since that is the only one she recommends and we cannot afford to buy one. We got 2 readings after lots of struggling, and now my cat has gone into hiding for hours. He is very smart and knows something is up, and will not come out for even high value treats. It's sad because we cannot afford the "hospital stay" for them to test at the clinic. Should we force him out of hiding and fight him for another test? I'm lost on what to do.

 

[Nan & Amber (GA)]

Ack! It can take a while to get into a routine of testing. Most cats figure out pretty quick that the pokes aren't that bad, and they get treats if they sit still for them-- but those first few tests can be tough!

Don't chase him or force him out of hiding, let him be for a while and re-start the process later when he calms down some and regains his composure. Just keep going with the routine of testing to get him used to the whole process. Sometimes it helps if you just do elements of it, like bringing him over to the testing spot, playing with his ears a little bit, and then just letting him go with a treat without doing the poke. Build as many positive associations with the process as you can, eventually he'll figure out that this weird thing you are doing with poking his ears really isn't that big a deal after all.

What numbers did you get on those first tests, by the way?

 

[EVLLADY]

He finally came out of hiding! He's not pleased, but we only have one test left!
7am 351
9am 297
12pm 203
2pm 259
4pm 353
Will be dropping off his numbers tomorrow with the rented glucometer.

 

[Ann & Scatcats]

Well done!